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Ingredients
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Cocktail
If using sugar cube
For simple syrup (if making fresh)
Method
Simple syrup (optional, makes ~1 cup)
Make simple syrup
Combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring until sugar fully dissolves. Remove from heat, cool to room temperature, then transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate. Keeps up to 2 weeks.
Cocktail assembly
Muddle sugar cube (if using)
If using a sugar cube instead of syrup: place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass (or rocks glass). Add 2 dashes Angostura bitters and ~1/4 teaspoon water. Muddle the cube until mostly dissolved into a paste.
Add syrup (if using syrup)
If using simple syrup instead of a cube: add 1/2 teaspoon simple syrup to the glass and 2 dashes Angostura bitters. Stir briefly to combine.
Add ice and stir
Add one large ice cube or several chilled ice cubes. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds (8-12 rotations) until the drink is chilled and slightly diluted.
Garnish
Express the oils of an orange peel over the glass by holding the peel skin-side down and giving it a firm squeeze so the oils spritz onto the surface. Rim the glass with the peel if desired, then drop the peel into the drink. Optionally add one maraschino cherry.
Serve
Serve immediately on the rocks. Sip and enjoy the original Old Fashioned.